2010 Red Sox Spring Training: Non-Roster Infielder Invitees

While some of the more devout Red Sox fans may already know everything about the non-roster invitees to 2010 spring training, such knowledge often eludes and frustrates those serious fans who don't understand the farm system's nuances.

Here then is a series of articles designed to introduce you to some of these players whose names and stats will be cluttering up March box scores.

Everyone knows the big guys, the big leaguers. Here are the little guys, the minor leaguers.

First Baseman Lars Anderson

Batting .288 with 10 homers, Lars Anderson was impressive back in 2007, his first full season with manager Gabe Kapler’s Greenville Drive (A). Anderson advanced quickly and continued to produce.

In 2008, splitting his season between the Lancaster JetHawks (A+) and the Portland Seadogs (AA), Anderson hit at a .317 clip and went yard 18 times.

However, 2009 spelled a significant downturn in Anderson’s progress. During his first full season with the Seadogs, Anderson managed to bat a mere .233, and for the first time in his minor league career, his on-base percentage sunk below .400.

While 2009 was a horrible year for the frequently discussed potential trade chip, 2010’s spring training offers new possibilities for this non-roster invitee.

At the same time, with Marco Scutaro manning shortstop at Fenway and the highly touted Jose Iglesias expected to make a meteoric rise to the majors, Navarro will have a tough time proving himself, at least in the Red Sox organization.

Shortstop Gil Velazquez

With all this youth in Iglesias, Navarro, and Sanchez biting at Gil Velazquez’ heels, the 30-year-old probably feels like one of the baseball ancients.

Sadly, Velazquez’ future with the Red Sox is probably relegated to the upper minors. Marco Scutaro stands solidly before him, and the future isn’t 30.

That said, Velazquez has never exactly been more than a solid utility player. With Boston’s shortstop position a proverbial carousel, Velazquez has had chances, but he’s never shined enough to be given a serious shot at the starting job.

Honestly, this former Twin is a weak hitter and a sub-par fielder. Velazquez has had enough success to stick around, but spring training is about as close as he’ll ever come to playing with the big league club for more than a cup of coffee.